You must be a politician. Can't just give a simple answer to a simple question.

Why, then are there no shortages? You can get gas/diesel anywhere at any time. A shortage implies difficulty getting something.

Where's the fun in that.

If it where a simple supply/demand equation yes.

Factor in dollar exchange rates, oil future speculation, peak oil, and how many other variables (real estate speculators jumping into the game)

I agree that all those things are having a big effect on price right now. I've been saying that on here for months. I'd be upset if I had a pension with the state of California, which increased it's exposure to commodities from $450million to $7.2billion recently. Since then, gold has dropped over 10%, platinum more that that, oil went under $100 briefly today. Are we going to have to bail them out when they lose their !profanity!es?

I'm not sure where you are getting your gold prices but they are the highest they have been in ages........gold ranges from $910-$950 bucks an ounce........I'm selling all that I have..........I take all of mine to Then & Again Antiques on Queen Street between Walnut & Lemon Streets. She is really fair.........almost too fair!!!!! She is always looking.............(and no, I DO NOT GET A COMMISSION!!) LOL

Gold had gone up over $1,000, and is now below $900. That's more than a 10% decline.